VIGRE II:  Vertical Integration of Research and Education
Department of Mathematics  --  University of Georgia

Introductory VIGRE Research Groups (IVRGs)

Spring 2010

Topic: String Theory (Robert Varley and Cal Burgoyne)
(Thursdays from 5:15-6:15 pm, room 410)

String theory (the ideas and some of its mathematical foundations)
(View the official website here.)

What do the string theory models proposed in mathematical physics explain about particle physics, gravity, and the structure of the universe, and what are the mathematical ingredients of the theories? There are many popular accounts of the subject. In this undergraduate research group we will explore some of the mathematics built into string theory. The plan is to work together and share the results through student presentations, individually or in small groups. A list of some of the possible topics follows:

  • basic ideas of string theory - Veneziano's model, the di erent types of string theories and the need for higher dimensions (10, 11, and 26 dimensions!)
  • classical string theory (1-D wave equation & vibrational modes of a string)
  • geometry of the world sheet as a string propagates in space-time (including an introduction to the di erential geometry of surfaces)

Prerequisites: Multivariable calculus and Linear algebra (MATH 2500 and MATH 3000, or the equivalent, or permission).

Other Information: To register for this IVRG, email Prof. Ted Shifrin [ahead@math.uga.edu] to be put on the access list for the course. It is listed as Math 4950 and counts for 1 credit hour, and is designed to be appropriate for undergraduate majors in: mathematics, physics, and mathematics education. There are also several opportunities to receive VIGRE support (something on the order of $12/hr) for your research activity; check with Dr. Varley [rvarley@math.uga.edu] and Dr. Cantarella [cantarel@math.uga.edu].

Recommended text: D. McMahon, String Theory DeMysti ed, A Self-Teaching Guide, 2009.

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There are also some research groups aimed at beginning graduate students in which appropriately prepared undergraduates may be interested. Please visit the Advanced VIGRE Research Groups page for more information on these.
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